New Local Housing Scholarships Announced
Two students each from Mamaroneck, White Plains, and Port Chester High Schools will receive Westchester Scholar Awards.
Westchester Scholar Awards
We’re pleased to announce a new partnership program with area high schools—Westchester Scholar Awards will provide housing scholarships in the amount of $10,000 per year for two students from each school who plan to pursue study in the Liberal Arts and Sciences.
Mamaroneck High School, White Plains High School, and Port Chester High School have signed on so far and it’s expected that other local schools will be added in the near future.
“We’re excited to offer this new award for local students,” says Caitlin Read, Dean of Enrollment. “Studies have shown that students who live on campus have a more successful and enjoyable college experience as they tend to receive more support, create more connections to their peers, earn better grades, and graduate at a higher rate than those who live off campus.”
Why Housing for Local Students?
This partnership with Westchester County high schools is designed to promote college access, preparation, and higher education attainment through early intervention.
Research indicates that students who live on campus are more satisfied with their college experience, earn higher grades, and are more likely to graduate than their commuting peers. They tend to have greater connections with the community and seek support when needed.
Who Is Eligible?
Students must:
- Graduate from one of the partner schools
- Live on campus
- Be recommended by a designee at their high school
- Apply and receive acceptance to one of the majors listed below.
How to Apply?
Applications for the Westchester Scholars are now open.
All students from partner high schools applying to approved majors will be considered so long as they complete their applications by March 15, 2024. Scholarship recipients will be notified by April 1, 2024.
Scholarships will be awarded based on the strength of the application and in consultation with the high school counseling department.
The Westchester Scholars Award will renew each year for a total of eight semesters, provided students meet the following requirements.
More Ways to Connect
In addition to the Westchester Scholar Award opportunities for graduates from partner schools, Purchase provides financial aid information sessions, application preparation programming, and on-campus learning experiences in conjunction with the needs of partner high schools.
“As a first-generation college graduate, I understand the financial burden many of our local students and their families face,” says President Milagros Peña. “I also know first-hand how a college education can provide valuable opportunities that have transformational benefits for families for generations to come. I’m proud to be able to help invest in the education of talented individuals at our partner schools and contribute to the development of future college graduates in Westchester County.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Purchase College to increase opportunities for the students of the Port Chester School District, says Dr. Aurelia L. Henriquez, Superintendent of the Port Chester-Rye Union Free School District. “Deeply rooted in our shared commitment to inclusive excellence, we will work together to remove barriers for students and families so that they can explore college and career pathways.”